Alex and Molly chat over dinner

Despite the initial awkward introductions, once Richard and Natalie started talking, Alex and Molly were left to their own devices.

“So… what are you getting?” Molly asked, looking up from the menu.

“I’m not sure, but the lobster mac and cheese sounds good.” Alex replied.

“OMG, that’s what I was thinking!” Molly exclaimed.

Alex chuckled.

“What about a drink?” Molly asked.

“Uh… cola?” Alex replied.

“Darn, I’m getting a root beer, but that’s still close.” Molly giggled. “I really like your dress. It’s super cute.”

“Thanks.” Alex blushed. “My mom bought it for me.”

“You two are close, right?” Molly asked. “Dad and I are the same way.”

“Since I was young, I barely knew my dad, Mom’s the only parent I have.” Alex replied with a tinge of sadness.

“Same. But let’s get off the heavy subjects. Do you like Heroes of Hollywood?” Molly asked.

Alex recognized the name, it was a popular boy band, but he didn’t know much about it, since he wasn’t exactly their target demographic.

“Nah, they’re a little too…” Alex stopped before he said ‘girly’, but Molly immediately jumped in.

“Mainstream? I thought that too, but they’ve got a real indie sound on their older albums.” Molly said. “I’ll send you some of the songs later.”

“Sounds good.” Alex said, and they exchanged phone numbers.

Over dinner, Alex and Molly made conversation about all manner of subjects, their respective schools, and thanks to some creative rewording of his activities, Alex was able to keep afloat in the conversation. In fact, he might have done his job a little too well. As dinner was winding up and dessert plates were pushed back, the check was paid, and Alex and his mother started to say their goodbyes as the group walked to the parking lot. As they walked, Molly grinned as an idea formed in her head.

“I had a great time, it was nice meeting both of you.” Alex said, reaching out to shake Richard’s hand.

“Same here. I’m glad that you girls got along well, because we’d both really like you to be friends.” Richard motioned to Natalie.

“I guess this is goodbye… But it doesn’t have to be,” Molly quickly turned to her father. “Can Lex sleep over?”

“What?” Alex exclaimed.

“I’ve been having so much fun talking to you and well, I thought it would be fun!” Molly said. “Plus I can show you that album I was talking about!”

“Oh, I don’t know…” Natalie started. “It’s so late and all, and I wouldn’t want to just leave her alone...”

“Please, Mom?” Alex asked, his eyes telling Natalie his opinion on the matter.